The Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam is one of the most important milestones in an engineer’s career, determining eligibility for professional licensure. While the exam is known for its rigor, understanding PE exam pass rates can help set realistic expectations and guide your preparation strategy. Pass rates vary significantly depending on the discipline, whether you are a first-time or repeat taker, and how recently you completed your engineering degree.
According to the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), first-time takers generally see pass rates between 60–75%, while repeat takers often score in the 30–50% range. Some exams, such as Civil, Mechanical, and Fire Protection, have historically higher pass rates, while others, like Petroleum and Electrical: Power, are more challenging. NCEES updates these numbers twice a year (January and July), making them the most reliable benchmark for tracking trends.
Key Takeaways
- First-time pass rates average 60–75%, while repeat takers average 30–50%.
- Discipline matters: Civil, Mechanical, and Fire Protection generally have higher pass rates than Petroleum or Electrical.
- Timing matters: Engineers with around four years of post-graduation experience typically see the best success rates.
- NCEES updates pass rates semiannually, so always check the latest official data before planning your attempt.
- Passing is ability-based, not quota-based: Scores are scaled against a minimum competency standard, not a fixed percentage.
Understanding PE Pass Rates
Before diving into discipline-specific numbers, it’s important to understand what PE exam pass rates actually represent and how NCEES calculates them. Many candidates assume that the exam has a fixed passing percentage or quota system, but that’s not the case.
First-Time vs. Repeat Takers
One of the biggest factors in the statistics is whether a candidate is taking the exam for the first time. Historically:
- First-time pass rates are significantly higher, often ranging between 60–75%.
- Repeat taker pass rates drop to around 30–50%, depending on the discipline.
This difference is not necessarily a measure of ability; it reflects exam preparedness, familiarity with the format, and sometimes the lag in study habits after an unsuccessful attempt.
How Passing is Determined
NCEES does not grade on a curve or cap the number of passing scores. Instead, each exam uses a scaled scoring system:
- A team of subject-matter experts sets a minimum ability level required for competence in that discipline.
- Your raw score is then converted into a scaled score to account for any slight variations in exam difficulty across different test versions.
- If you meet or exceed the passing threshold, you pass—regardless of how many others do.
This means that a 50% pass rate does not mean only half of the candidates are allowed to pass; it reflects how many met the competency standard in that exam cycle.
Timing and Career Stage
Another consistent trend is the timing of the exam relative to graduation and work experience:
- Candidates with around four years of professional experience (the minimum required in most states to sit for the exam) show the highest pass rates.
- Taking the exam too soon after graduation may leave gaps in applied knowledge, while delaying it for many years can make study habits rusty.
Semiannual Updates
Pass rates are not static—they are updated twice a year (January and July) by NCEES. These updates reflect data from the most recent testing cycles and help candidates see where their discipline stands in terms of difficulty and success rates. The official statistics are always published on the NCEES pass rates page.
Historical Trends in PE Exam Pass Rates
Looking at historical pass rate data provides valuable insight into how the PE exam has evolved. While exact percentages vary by discipline, several clear patterns emerge across decades of testing.
Transition from Paper-and-Pencil to CBT
For many years, the PE was a paper-and-pencil exam offered only twice a year. This meant pass rates were strongly influenced by test-day conditions and limited opportunities to retake. With the shift to computer-based testing (CBT) starting in 2018 and completing for most disciplines by 2024, several changes occurred:
- More frequent testing: Instead of being limited to April and October, most CBT exams are now available year-round at Pearson VUE centers.
- Faster results: Scores are typically released in 7–10 days, compared to 8–10 weeks in the paper era.
- Slightly steadier pass rates: Because more candidates can take the exam throughout the year, large spikes and drops are less common.
First-Time vs. Repeat Takers Over Time
Historical data show that first-time takers consistently outperform repeat takers across all years. For example, in the early 2010s, Civil PE pass rates for first-timers hovered around 65–70%, while repeat takers were closer to 40%. That same gap persists today, even under CBT, highlighting how critical thorough preparation is for the first attempt.
Discipline Variability
Over the past decade, certain disciplines have maintained stable pass rates while others fluctuate more:
- Civil PE: Traditionally stable, with first-time rates between 60–70% for most modules.
- Mechanical PE: Generally strong, often in the 70–80% range for first-time takers.
- Electrical PE: More variable, with Power often dipping into the low 60s, while Electronics and Computer Engineering trend higher.
- Petroleum PE: Consistently one of the toughest, with pass rates sometimes falling below 50% for first-time takers.
Impact of Experience
NCEES has also highlighted a consistent pattern across historical datasets: candidates with about four years of experience post-graduation show the highest likelihood of success. This aligns with the licensure requirement and demonstrates that the exam is designed for engineers at this career stage.
Overall Stability
Despite exam changes, one striking feature is how stable pass rates remain year to year. The Civil PE has not suddenly become easier or harder; it consistently tests core engineering competencies. Fluctuations of 2–5% are normal, but sweeping shifts are rare.
Civil PE Pass Rates (2016–2024)
Civil engineering is the most popular discipline for the PE exam, and its pass rates provide a clear view of long-term trends. The table below highlights data for first-time and repeat takers across several modules:
| Exam Year | Discipline | First-Time Pass Rate | Repeat Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 (Paper Exam) | Civil: Construction | 55% | 29% |
| Civil: Geotechnical | 63% | 27% | |
| Civil: Structural | 66% | 43% | |
| Civil: Transportation | 68% | 33% | |
| Civil: Water Resources & Environmental | 71% | 35% | |
| 2024 (CBT – July–Dec Cycle) | Civil: Construction | 64% | 41% |
| Civil: Geotechnical | 64% | 46% | |
| Civil: Structural | 61% | 39% | |
| Civil: Transportation | 61% | 39% | |
| Civil: Water Resources & Environmental | 72% | 50% |
Sources: NCEES, PPI2Pass, Wikipedia – PE Exam
What the Numbers Show
- First-Time Candidates Hold an Advantage
Across both 2016 and 2024, first-time takers consistently performed better, with pass rates averaging in the 60–70% range. This emphasizes the importance of strong preparation before the first attempt. - Improved Outcomes for Repeat Takers
In 2016, repeat pass rates were notably low—often below 35%. By 2024, repeat taker performance improved, with rates closer to 40–50%, likely due to increased availability of study resources and year-round testing through CBT. - Module Variability Remains
- Water Resources & Environmental consistently posts the highest pass rates (71–72%).
- Construction, Geotechnical, and Structural remain more challenging, with repeat pass rates hovering around 40%.
- Transportation has narrowed toward the middle of the pack.
- Stability Over Time
Even with the shift from paper-and-pencil to computer-based testing, the overall pass rate ranges have remained stable. This reinforces that exam rigor has been preserved despite format changes.
Key Insight
Historical pass rate data show that the Civil PE exam has remained consistently demanding but fair. Candidates who prepare thoroughly for their first attempt have the best chance of success, while repeat takers now benefit from stronger study resources and flexible testing windows that were not available a decade ago.
Mechanical PE Pass Rates (2016–2024)
The Mechanical PE exam is another highly popular discipline. It covers three main areas—HVAC and Refrigeration, Mechanical Systems and Materials, and Thermal and Fluids Systems. Historically, these modules have seen higher pass rates than Civil PE, especially for first-time candidates.
| Exam Year | Discipline | First-Time Pass Rate | Repeat Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 (Paper Exam) | Mechanical: HVAC & Refrigeration | 71% | 34% |
| Mechanical: Mechanical Systems & Materials | 72% | 36% | |
| Mechanical: Thermal & Fluids Systems | 71% | 37% | |
| 2024 (CBT – July–Dec Cycle) | Mechanical: HVAC & Refrigeration | 74% | 51% |
| Mechanical: Mechanical Systems & Materials | 76% | 53% | |
| Mechanical: Thermal & Fluids Systems | 78% | 66% |
Sources: NCEES Pass Rates, PPI2Pass, Wikipedia – PE Exam
What the Numbers Show
- Consistently Higher First-Time Success
First-time takers for Mechanical PE have historically seen pass rates in the 70–78% range—higher than Civil and Electrical. This makes Mechanical one of the most “accessible” exams, provided candidates prepare thoroughly. - Strong Improvement for Repeat Takers
In 2016, repeat pass rates were below 40%. By 2024, repeat pass rates increased significantly, ranging from 51–66%, the highest among all major disciplines. - Thermal & Fluids Leads the Pack
The Thermal and Fluids Systems module has recently shown the highest pass rates (78% for first-timers and 66% for repeat takers in 2024). - CBT Transition Benefited Candidates
The computer-based testing (CBT) format appears to have benefited Mechanical candidates, as seen by the sharp improvement in repeat pass rates compared to the paper era.
Key Insight
The Mechanical PE exam has become one of the more favorable disciplines in terms of pass rates. Both first-time and repeat candidates now have a higher likelihood of success than a decade ago, especially in the Thermal and Fluids Systems module.
Electrical PE Pass Rates (2016–2024)
The Electrical and Computer PE exam is divided into three modules: Power, Electronics, and Computer Engineering. Among these, Power is the most widely taken and also one of the toughest PE exams.
| Exam Year | Discipline | First-Time Pass Rate | Repeat Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 (Paper Exam) | Electrical: Power | 59% | 32% |
| Electrical: Electronics | 67% | 37% | |
| Electrical: Computer | 67% | 44% | |
| 2024 (CBT – July–Dec Cycle) | Electrical: Power | 61% | 42% |
| Electrical: Electronics | 66% | 47% | |
| Electrical: Computer | 70% | 51% |
Sources: NCEES Pass Rates, PPI2Pass, Wikipedia – PE Exam
What the Numbers Show
- Power Module Remains the Toughest
The Power exam continues to challenge candidates, with first-time pass rates barely above 60% and repeat pass rates around 42% in 2024. It remains one of the lowest-scoring PE modules overall. - Electronics and Computer Perform Better
Candidates in Electronics and Computer Engineering have historically had stronger outcomes. In 2024, Computer Engineering reached a 70% first-time pass rate and a 51% repeat rate, significantly higher than Power. - Repeat Taker Improvement
Like other disciplines, repeat pass rates have improved since 2016. The transition to CBT and increased study resources likely contributed to this upward shift, especially in Computer Engineering. - Consistency Across the Decade
Despite format changes, the relative difficulty ranking of the three modules hasn’t changed:- Power → most difficult
- Electronics → moderate
- Computer → most favorable
Key Insight
Electrical PE pass rates highlight a clear divide between modules. The Power exam remains a significant hurdle, while Electronics and Computer candidates have a stronger chance of success. Engineers aiming for Power should expect a more intensive preparation process than their peers in other specialties.
Petroleum PE Pass Rates (2016–2024)
The Petroleum PE exam is known for being one of the most challenging, largely due to its technical depth and the relatively small candidate pool compared to Civil, Mechanical, or Electrical exams.
| Exam Year | Discipline | First-Time Pass Rate | Repeat Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 (Paper Exam) | Petroleum | 58% | 19% |
| 2024 (CBT – July–Dec Cycle) | Petroleum | 42% | 33% |
Sources: NCEES Pass Rates, PPI2Pass, Wikipedia – PE Exam
What the Numbers Show
- Lowest Pass Rates Overall
In 2024, Petroleum had a 42% first-time pass rate and just 33% for repeat takers. This makes it the hardest PE exam in terms of statistical likelihood of success. - Decline from 2016
Pass rates have dropped compared to 2016, when first-time candidates were closer to 58%. The increased specialization of Petroleum engineering may partly explain this decline. - Small Candidate Pool
Petroleum attracts fewer candidates than Civil or Mechanical, and with fewer test-takers, the statistical fluctuations are more noticeable. Still, the trend shows this discipline has consistently lower pass rates. - High Level of Technical Knowledge Required
The content is very specialized, focusing on drilling, production, and reservoir engineering, which can be more difficult for candidates who haven’t stayed closely tied to the field in recent years.
Key Insight
The Petroleum PE exam is statistically the most difficult PE exam to pass. Candidates need focused, discipline-specific preparation, and even then, the numbers show that fewer than half of first-time takers pass.
Fire Protection PE Pass Rates (2016–2024)
At the opposite end of the spectrum from Petroleum, Fire Protection is consistently one of the highest pass rate PE exams.
| Exam Year | Discipline | First-Time Pass Rate | Repeat Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 (Paper Exam) | Fire Protection | 73% | 37% |
| 2024 (CBT – July–Dec Cycle) | Fire Protection | 80% | 43% |
Sources: NCEES Pass Rates, PPI2Pass, Wikipedia – PE Exam
What the Numbers Show
- Highest Success Rates
With an 80% first-time pass rate in 2024, Fire Protection is at the top of the spectrum across all PE exams. - Steady Over the Years
From 2016 (73%) to 2024 (80%), pass rates have remained strong, showing stability and relatively high candidate preparedness. - Smaller but Focused Candidate Pool
Like Petroleum, Fire Protection has fewer candidates, but unlike Petroleum, those who sit for this exam often have highly specialized training, which contributes to higher success rates. - Repeat Rates Remain Moderate
Repeat pass rates are still lower (43%), but much higher than repeat candidates in Petroleum or Civil.
Key Insight
Fire Protection consistently posts the highest PE pass rates, with 8 in 10 first-time candidates succeeding. Candidates in this field benefit from a narrower, specialized scope and focused preparation.
Key Elements Affecting PE Exam Pass Rates
While raw pass rate numbers give us insight into exam difficulty, they don’t tell the full story. Several factors directly influence whether candidates pass or fail the PE exam. Understanding these can help explain why certain disciplines consistently perform better than others.
1. Discipline-Specific Difficulty
Not all PE exams are created equal.
- Breadth vs. Depth: Exams like Civil cover a wide range of topics, which can overwhelm candidates who specialize in just one area.
- Highly Specialized Fields: Disciplines such as Petroleum have lower pass rates because of highly technical questions that require deep field-specific knowledge.
Example: Civil PE has a 58% first-time pass rate, while Fire Protection is around 80%.
2. Candidate Background and Experience
- Practical Work Experience: Candidates who work daily in their field tend to perform better.
- Academic Gap: Engineers who delay taking the exam often struggle, as technical details fade over time.
- Industry Demand: In high-demand fields like Civil, many candidates may attempt the exam without being fully prepared, lowering the pass rate.
3. Preparation Strategies
How candidates prepare is one of the most decisive factors.
- Structured Study Programs: Using review courses (e.g., PPI2Pass PE Courses) can improve pass rates significantly.
- Practice Exams: Simulating the CBT (computer-based testing) environment helps reduce exam anxiety.
- Time Management: Candidates who fail often cite running out of time as a major issue.
4. First-Time vs. Repeat Candidates
- First-Time Advantage: NCEES data shows first-time takers consistently outperform repeat takers across every discipline.
- Psychological Factors: Repeat candidates often carry test anxiety from previous failures, impacting performance.
- Preparation Gaps: Many repeat candidates fail to significantly change their study strategy, repeating the same mistakes.
5. Exam Format (Paper vs. CBT Transition)
- Paper Exams (Pre-2022): Candidates had access to physical reference materials, which made open-book navigation easier for some.
- CBT Format (Post-2022): Candidates now use the NCEES Reference Handbook, which limits resources but standardizes fairness.
- Impact on Pass Rates: Some disciplines saw temporary dips during the transition as candidates adjusted to the new format.
6. Candidate Pool Size and Demographics
- Large Pool (Civil): More diverse candidate backgrounds → broader range of preparation levels → lower pass rates.
- Small Pool (Fire Protection & Petroleum): Specialized candidates → more consistent preparation levels → extremes in pass rates (very high or very low).
- International Candidates: Some disciplines attract more international engineers, who may face language or code-difference barriers.
7. Exam Day Factors
Even well-prepared candidates may underperform due to:
- Time Pressure: 80–85 questions in 8 hours can be overwhelming.
- Fatigue: Mental stamina plays a major role, especially in afternoon sessions.
- Test Anxiety: Candidates who freeze under pressure may not reflect their true knowledge level.
Pass rates aren’t solely about “how hard the exam is.” They’re influenced by preparation habits, candidate demographics, industry demands, and exam format changes.
Steps to Achieve a Higher PE Exam Pass Rate
Passing the PE exam requires more than just technical knowledge—it demands a structured approach, consistent practice, and smart preparation strategies. Here are key steps that have proven effective for candidates across disciplines.
1. Start Early and Build a Study Plan
- Set a Timeline: Begin at least 3–6 months in advance to cover all topics systematically.
- Allocate Hours: Most successful candidates dedicate 200–300 hours of study time.
- Break It Down: Divide study sessions into topic-based blocks and set weekly goals.
2. Focus on the NCEES Reference Handbook
- Since the exam is now computer-based, the NCEES Reference Handbook is the only resource available during the test.
- Get familiar with navigating it quickly — searching formulas, tables, and definitions efficiently can save crucial minutes.
- Highlight and tab key sections during practice.
3. Use Practice Exams to Simulate Real Conditions
- Timed Practice: Replicate the 8-hour structure with 4-hour morning and afternoon sessions.
- Exam Strategy: Learn when to skip time-consuming questions and return later.
- Benchmarking: NCEES offers official practice exams, which closely reflect question style and difficulty.
4. Leverage PE Review Courses
- Structured courses provide accountability and access to expert instructors.
- Popular options include:
- Candidates using review programs often report higher first-time pass success compared to self-study alone.
5. Master Problem-Solving Speed
- Skip vs. Solve: Don’t get stuck on one question — move on and return later.
- Practice Shortcuts: Learn calculator functions and formula rearrangements to save time.
- Accuracy First: Avoid rushing; double-check critical unit conversions and constants.
6. Understand the CBT Exam Tools
- Familiarize yourself with the Pearson VUE testing interface.
- Practice with the on-screen calculator and digital annotation tools.
- The more comfortable you are with the format, the less time wasted on logistics.
7. Review Weak Areas Consistently
- Don’t just reinforce your strengths — allocate more time to challenging topics.
- Use error logs to track repeated mistakes and focus on improving them.
- Engage with discussion forums and study groups for alternative problem-solving methods.
8. Prioritize Exam-Day Readiness
- Sleep & Nutrition: A fresh mind is more valuable than cramming the night before.
- Test Center Familiarity: Know what items are allowed and the rules for breaks.
- Pacing Strategy: Divide 80–85 questions into manageable chunks (e.g., 10 questions every 30 minutes).
Success on the PE exam is not about last-minute studying—it’s about early preparation, smart practice, and mastering the tools you’ll use on test day.
Conclusion: What PE Exam Pass Rates Mean
PE exam pass rates are more than just numbers—they reflect the balance of preparation, discipline, and strategy that candidates bring to the process. While historical data shows fluctuations across disciplines, the consistent pattern is clear: engineers who prepare early, use structured study methods, and practice under exam-like conditions are far more likely to succeed.
By understanding the factors that influence pass rates and applying proven preparation strategies, you can position yourself among the successful candidates. Remember, the PE exam is not only a test of technical knowledge but also of time management, problem-solving efficiency, and perseverance.
Ultimately, a higher pass rate begins with a solid plan, disciplined execution, and the confidence to approach exam day fully prepared. With the right approach, earning your PE license becomes an achievable milestone in your engineering career.
FAQs About PE Exam Pass Rates
1. What is the average PE exam pass rate?
The average first-time pass rate for the PE exam is around 65–70%, while repeat taker pass rates typically fall between 25–35%. Rates vary depending on the engineering discipline.
2. Which PE exam discipline has the highest pass rate?
Disciplines like Structural (Vertical) and Electrical Power often report higher-than-average pass rates for first-time takers, while Civil sees the largest number of candidates and a slightly lower average pass rate.
3. How many hours should I study to pass the PE exam?
Most successful candidates dedicate 200–300 hours of study time over a 3–6 month period. This allows for comprehensive coverage of all exam topics and plenty of practice with sample problems.
4. Do review courses improve pass rates?
Yes. Candidates who enroll in structured PE review courses (such as PPI2Pass or School of PE) often have higher pass rates compared to those relying solely on self-study, due to expert guidance and accountability.
5. What happens if I fail the PE exam?
If you don’t pass, you can retake the exam. NCEES allows candidates to attempt the exam up to three times per year (depending on the state). Reviewing weak areas and adjusting your study strategy is essential for success on the next attempt.